Chat with Taylor Dawn

Today I’m chatting with Taylor Dawn, author of Saving London. For those of you that haven’t heard about Saving London, it sounds great and I’ll be sure to post a synopsis at the bottom of the interview. I have not had a chance to read it myself yet but I’m oping I get to soon.

Why don’t we start off by you telling us a little about yourself?

I’m a kid at heart. I love to laugh and to make others laugh. I’m married and have a 10 year old son who is pretty much a clone of myself. I live on a farm with a turkey who follows me to the mailbox like a dog would. I love to travel but prefer road trips to air travel. If I’m going out of the country though, an airplane is a must (I’m not that great of a swimmer). I’m a wealth of useless knowledge and think I’d be amazing on Jeopardy. I used to be a hairstylist but after 2 major back surgeries I had to throw in the towel for that career. I love writing and couldn’t imagine doing anything else at this point in my life.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love to play practical jokes for fun. My husband and son are frequent victims of my shenanigans.

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

When I was in high school it hit me that I wanted to write. I loved poetry and creative writing class.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family is supportive but it’s an adjustment for them. When you work from home it’s tough to have time for your career and your family. I’m lucky that they are so understanding though.

What do you think makes a good story?

In my opinion, a good story should have heart. I should be able to feel that the author dug deep and bled onto the pages. I want to see that the author made themselves vulnerable.

Is there a subject you would never write about as author? If so what is it?

I don’t think I would ever write horror. Honestly I just don’t think I’d be very good at it.

Do you create an outline before writing?

I don’t outline. I do have a notebook for every book I write though. I jot down ideas in them but the majority of my outline is in my head. I let it pour out onto the pages.

How much research do you have to do before writing a novel?

For my latest novel I did extensive research. I spent time on theology, world history and even language research. I wanted it to be as authentic as possible.

Any advice for getting through the dreaded writers block?

Take a break. If you’re blocked take a step back. Most authors find inspiration in the world around them. The best thing to do is to get in touch with that.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors, like myself?

If you want to be a writer…write. Simple as that.

How is the publishing process? Any advice?

I think there’s a common misconception with the entire publishing process. Readers believe the book is magically put out there by book fairies. When in reality, it’s a painstaking process that will have you in tears at some point. The biggest advice in it all is to breathe. I have trouble taking my own advice sometimes.

It’s top secret….Ssssssh.

Okay now for some lighter questions.

Coffee or Tea?

Coffee(With tons of creamer)

Do you write more in the morning, afternoon or at night?

I write at night only.

Are you an early bird or night owl?

I’m a night owl. I rarely get out of bed until noon.

What is your favorite genre to read?

Romance will always be my fav genre to read.

Is there a book that you wish you could have written?

Not really. I don’t aspire to be like anyone else. If I’m to be a success I want to be one as myself. Trying to write like someone else or be like them is a sure fire way to fail.

and lastly:

What is your favorite book at the moment?

I can’t pick a favorite. I just love books!

Is there anything else you would like for your readers to know?

I’m an extremely positive person. I search for the upside to every downside. I like to challenge myself by leaping outside of my box constantly. I think that life is way too short to just sit at home and waste away. If you want something in life, you have to go out and find it.

author links:

Thank you for taking the time to chat with me! You gave some sound advice that I hope I’m able to follow.

Jun 9, 2015hyperashley

About Saving London

Summary

“You have terminal cancer.”

London Patterson, a seemingly healthy young woman, had her entire life ahead of her. That was until four little words brought everything to a screeching halt. As the shock and grief begin to fade, London decides to map out her last year and embark on an epic journey to complete a bucket list. She wants to do the things she’s been afraid to do in her life, step out of her self-contained box, and see the world. What she didn’t expect was for a mysterious stranger named Adam to breeze into her life like a breath of fresh air.

Adam offers to help London complete her list on one condition…that she sees it through to the end. Agreeing on those terms, the two set out on an adventure of a lifetime. But London soon realizes that Adam isn’t quite…human. Along their journey odd occurrences happen that cause London to question who or what Adam is and why he’s helping her.

Purchase

My name is Ashley. I spend most of my life in a hyper state (hence the name). I read, I write, I rant and whine. Enjoy this glimpse into my little world and no judgements please. Some of my reviews may include spoilers.